Problems with my plum tree

Question

I just recently noticed that I had a red ant bed in my plum tree. I sprinkled some powdery white Ortho ant poison on the ant pile but I also noticed that my plum leaves have a lot of holes in them and some dark spots on the leaves. The Ortho ant poison killed the ants from what I can tell. Have I also killed my plum tree by using the ant poison? Also, what do the small holes and dark spots on the plum leaves indicate? What can I do about this problem to help my plum tree grow and produce great plums?

Answer 1

The ant poison probably isn't what hurt the tree. The holes and spots on the leaves could mean your plum has shot hole disease:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/shot-hole-disease-fungus.htm

These articles will help you check the symptoms and find out what to do about shot hole disease:

http://hortsense.cahnrs.wsu.edu/Search/MainMenuWithFactSheet.aspx?CategoryId=3&PlantDefId=65&ProblemId=114
extension.usu.edu/files/publications/factsheet/coryneum-blight08.pdf

You might also want to check with a university extension agent or arborist if the problem persists.

Answer 2

It sounds like your tree is suffering from Plum Leaf Spot.
These articles will help you.
The ants and treatment likely has nothing to do with the Leaf Spot disease.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/plum-tree-diseases.htm
https://extension.psu.edu/plants/tree-fruit/diseases/stone-fruit-diseases/plum-leaf-spot
http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/trees-shrubs/management-of-leaf-spot-diseases/